There are no live seminars scheduled, but we want to remind you that the entire educational seminar "Joint Arthritis - What's New, What Works" is available for viewing online, either in its entirety or in segments.

Summertime brings a host of activities designed to make the most of the outdoors - family reunions, barbecue dinners with the neighbors, trips to the beach with the grandkids and vacations, to name a few. As enjoyable as they are, some of these activities can present challenges to managing your arthritis pain. Here are some tips to help:

Slather on the sunscreen

Increased sensitivity to light is a common side effect of many arthritis treatment medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Even over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can increase your risk of sunburn. Apply sunscreen liberally and often. A good rule of thumb is a shot glassful for your body and a tablespoon size dollop for your face and neck.

Need a reminder to reapply your sunscreen? Yes, there's an app for that! Customized by your location, apps like Coppertone's MyUV Alert™ deliver the weather forecast to your Smartphone, including the current UV index, along with advice on what to wear and do to protect yourself appropriately. You can even activate a reminder alert to tell you when to reapply your sunscreen. Another option is to use a product or accessory that changes color with sun exposure. There are color-changing nail polishes, flip-flops, sunglasses and products like Sunscreen Bands™  bracelets.

Put your best foot forward

Warmer weather means lighter weight clothing, but not necessarily for your feet. While sandals might seem like a good choice for summer footwear, they don't provide much arch support. Make sure your choice of footwear provides even support and comfort without putting undue stress on your joints.

Ride in comfort

If a long car trip is part of your summer vacation plans, turn on the radio! In a study done at the Cleveland Clinic of folks with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and disk problems, listening to music reduced pain by more than 20%.

Adjust your car seat to gain as much leg room as possible. Even if you don't need the extra space, stretching your legs out in front of you every 20 minutes will prevent cramping and stiffness.

Fill up on fruit salad

Plentiful in the summer, berries, mangoes, papayas and bananas are full of antioxidants that help fight joint inflammation.

Take a seat...literally

If you are facing long lines at popular vacation spots, carry a folding seat cane. Even if you don't need the cane for walking, these handy devices are designed to be lightweight and offer a sturdy temporary perch. They are available for $30-$40.

Exercise the right way, at the right time

Exercise is good for your joints, even - no, especially - arthritic ones. However you choose to move your body, you want to avoid heatstroke. Exercising in the morning or early afternoon is wise. You can avoid the heat of the day and allow your body plenty of time to rest and recuperate in the evening.

Aqua exercise is a natural way to keep your cool while you keep moving. We discussed the different types of aqua exercise and their benefits in our January 2013 newsletter.

With an eye toward staying cool, comfortable and sun-safe, you should have many enjoyable summer days ahead!  

About the photo: Former U.S. Congressman Gary Lee (NY), a hip and knee replacement patient, enjoys swimming with his grandson. Listen to Gary's story.